Sikkim Darjeeling Family Friendly Itinerary

Friday, March 22: Arrival in Siliguri

Start your trip by arriving at Siliguri, the gateway to Sikkim and Darjeeling. After checking in at your hotel, take some time to relax and settle in. In the afternoon, explore the local markets and indulge in some shopping for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

• Estimated cost: Varies
• Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours

Restaurants

• Cafe Coffee Day - A popular breakfast spot that offers a variety of beverages and breakfast items. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
• Kalimpong Restaurant - This lunch spot specializes in local cuisine, serving delicious momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• Park Restaurant - Known for its cozy ambiance and delicious Chinese and Indian dishes, this dinner spot is a favorite among locals and tourists. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.

Saturday, March 23: Gangtok

Embark on a full day trip to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. In the morning, visit the picturesque Tsomgo Lake, known for its serene beauty. Enjoy a fun-filled ride on a yak or take a stroll around the lake. In the afternoon, explore the famous Rumtek Monastery, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. Wrap up the day with a visit to the vibrant MG Marg, a popular shopping and entertainment hub.

• Estimated cost: Varies
• Estimated time spent: Full day

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Baker's Café, known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try The Square, a popular restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
• For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Parivar Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Indian and Nepalese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Sunday, March 24: Pelling

Head to the charming town of Pelling, located in West Sikkim. Start your day with a visit to the majestic Pemayangtse Monastery, known for its exquisite architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, explore the famous Khecheopalri Lake, considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. Take a nature walk around the lake and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

• Estimated cost: Varies
• Estimated time spent: Full day

Monday, March 25: Darjeeling

Travel to the enchanting hill station of Darjeeling. Begin your day with a visit to the Tiger Hill to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the Kanchenjunga Mountains. Afterward, explore the famous Ghoom Monastery and learn about its rich history. In the afternoon, take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train," and enjoy the scenic views of the tea gardens. End the day with a visit to the Happy Valley Tea Estate, where you can learn about the tea-making process and indulge in a tea tasting session.

• Estimated cost: Varies
• Estimated time spent: Full day

Tuesday, March 26: Mirik

Venture to the beautiful town of Mirik, located in the Darjeeling district. Start your day with a visit to the stunning Sumendu Lake, where you can go boating or simply relax by the lakeside. Take a leisurely walk through the Mirik Bazaar, known for its traditional handicrafts and local produce. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the famous Mirik tea, known for its unique flavor. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful sunset from the Rameetay Dara viewpoint.

• Estimated cost: Varies
• Estimated time spent: Full day

Wednesday, March 27: Kalimpong

Visit the charming town of Kalimpong, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. Start your day with a visit to the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, home to rare Tibetan Buddhist scriptures. Explore the beautiful flower nurseries and orchid gardens, which are a treat for nature lovers. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Deolo Hill, the highest point in Kalimpong, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

• Estimated cost: Varies
• Estimated time spent: Full day

Thursday, March 28: Departure from Siliguri

After a memorable trip exploring Sikkim and Darjeeling, it's time to bid farewell. Check out from your hotel in Siliguri and proceed to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

• Estimated cost: Varies
• Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, you can visit Cafe Coffee Day located in Siliguri. They offer a wide variety of breakfast items, from sandwiches to pastries. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to Keventers in Darjeeling. This iconic restaurant is known for its delicious milkshakes and quick bites. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• For dinner, try The Square Restaurant in Gangtok. They serve a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines, with a cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Temi Tea Garden in South Sikkim. Take a tour of the tea estate, learn about tea cultivation, and enjoy a peaceful tea session amidst the lush greenery. Another hidden gem is the Lamahatta Eco Park, a serene haven with beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and picnic spots. Locals also recommend exploring the quaint village of Tinchuley, known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and homestay experiences.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit this link.